How Relining Dentures Keeps Your Dentures Comfortable and Secure
Dentures are an important investment in your smile and daily comfort. But over time, your mouth can change shape, causing your dentures to feel loose, uncomfortable, or even painful. That’s where denture relining comes in. By updating the inner layer of your dentures, relining can restore their fit, making them feel just as snug and secure as when you first got them. Swansea, IL dentist, Dr. Randall E. Wilson at Corner Stone Dental, specializes in helping denture wearers maintain their comfort and confidence through expert relining services.
For more information about denture relining, contact Corner Stone Dental today by calling (618) 236-0501. We’re proud to serve patients in Swansea, Belleville, O’Fallon, East St. Louis and the surrounding areas.
What is Denture Relining?
Denture relining is a process where your dentist reshapes the inner surface of your dentures to better fit your gums. It’s a common and cost-effective way to improve the fit of your dentures without having to replace them entirely. This service can be performed on both full and partial dentures, ensuring they stay comfortable and effective as the structure of your mouth naturally changes over time. Just like natural teeth, dentures require regular maintenance to ensure they remain comfortable and effective.
Benefits of Denture Relining
Relining is not just about comfort; it’s also about maintaining your oral health. Relining can improve the contact between dentures and both hard and soft tissue, reducing irritation and promoting better oral health. By relining your dentures, you can prevent:
- Irritation and sore spots on your gums
- Issues with eating and speaking clearly
- Damage to the dentures due to an improper fit
Investing in a reline can also extend the life of your dentures, helping you save money in the long run.
Why Do Dentures Need Relining?
As we age, it’s natural for our gums and jawbone to shrink or shift slightly. This can create gaps between your dentures and your gums, causing the dentures to feel loose or uncomfortable. Relining addresses these changes and improves how your dentures sit in your mouth, which can lead to:
- Reduced discomfort
- Improved bite and chewing ability
- Less need for adhesive products
- A more natural feel
Types of Denture Relining
When it comes to relining dentures, you have options. Dr. Wilson can help determine the best choice for you based on your comfort and how often you wear your dentures.
Soft Reline: Using Soft Material
Soft relining uses a pliable, cushiony material that conforms to the shape of your gums. It’s ideal for those with sensitive gums or those who find traditional dentures uncomfortable. This option usually requires more frequent adjustments than a hard reline but offers greater comfort.
Hard Reline
Hard denture reline involves reshaping the denture base with a more durable acrylic material. While it’s firmer than a soft reline, it provides a long-lasting, stable fit that’s great for everyday use. A hard reline may feel more like your original denture material and typically lasts longer than a soft reline.
Temporary Reline
A temporary reline, also known as a therapeutic reline, is often used when there is significant irritation, inflammation, or infection of the gums. This reline uses a medicated, soft material to help soothe the gums and promote healing.
The Denture Relining Process
Relining your dentures is a straightforward procedure, and in many cases, it can be done in just one dental visit. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Assessment
Dr. Wilson will start by examining your mouth and dentures to see where adjustments are needed. He’ll determine if a soft or hard reline is most suitable for your needs. - Preparation and Reshaping
If needed, a small amount of material may be removed from the inner part of the dentures to make room for the new lining material. This ensures a smooth, even fit. - Application of the New Lining
The new lining material is then applied to your denture and molded to the shape of your gums. Dr. Wilson will ensure the fit is comfortable and natural before you leave. - Final Adjustments
Once the material has set, Dr. Wilson will make any final adjustments so your dentures feel just right. He’ll check for comfort and ensure that your bite is well-aligned.
How Often Should Dentures Be Relined?
Most dentists recommend having your dentures relined every 1-2 years to keep them fitting comfortably. However, you may need to have them relined sooner if you notice any of these signs:
- Your dentures feel loose or wobbly
- You experience discomfort when wearing them
- You need to use more adhesive than usual
- You feel pressure spots or soreness in your gums
Regular check-ups with Dr. Wilson can help identify when it’s time for a reline. He helps patients in Swansea, Belleville, O’Fallon, East St. Louis and the surrounding areas maintain comfortable, reliable dentures.
The Cost of Denture Relining
The cost of denture relining can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of reline (soft or hard), the materials used, and your specific dental office’s pricing. Generally, a soft reline may cost between $300 to $500, while a hard reline could range from $400 to $600 or more.
Insurance coverage can help with some or all of the cost, especially if the reline is deemed medically necessary. Be sure to check with your provider or ask Dr. Wilson for help understanding your plan and potential out-of-pocket expenses. Dr. Wilson is dedicated to making quality denture care accessible for all patients.
Post-Reline Care: Keeping Your Dentures Comfortable
After relining, caring for your dentures properly is essential to maintain the comfortable fit and longevity of your reline. Here are some key post-reline care tips:
- Avoid Hot Liquids and Foods Initially: After a reline, your dentures may be more sensitive to extreme temperatures. Avoid very hot foods and drinks for the first few days to allow the new lining to settle comfortably.
- Clean Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a denture brush to clean your dentures daily, as rough brushing can damage the reline material. Be sure to rinse with lukewarm water and avoid abrasive toothpaste.
- Soak Dentures Overnight: To keep the lining in good condition, soak your dentures overnight in a denture cleaner or water. This helps the material stay pliable and extends the life of the reline.
- Regular Check-Ups with Your Dentist: After your reline, it’s important to have regular check-ups to ensure your dentures continue to fit well. Dr. Wilson will check for any signs of wear or issues that might need attention to keep your dentures functioning optimally.
- Handle with Care: Relined dentures may feel snugger, but they still require careful handling. Avoid dropping or bending them, and always use both hands when putting them in or taking them out.
Maintaining Your Dentures
Maintaining your dentures is crucial to ensure they last for a long time and continue to provide you with a comfortable and confident smile. Here are some tips to help you maintain your dentures:
- Clean Your Dentures Regularly: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild denture cleaner to clean your dentures daily. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage your dentures. This helps in maintaining the integrity of the denture reline and ensures your dentures remain comfortable.
- Soak Your Dentures: Soak your dentures in a denture cleaning solution or warm water for a few seconds to loosen any food particles or debris. This step is essential for keeping the soft material of a soft denture reline in good condition.
- Rinse with Cold Water: After soaking, rinse your dentures with cold water to remove any remaining debris or cleaning solution. This helps in maintaining the freshness and cleanliness of your dentures.
- Store Your Dentures Properly: When not in use, store your dentures in a protective case or container to prevent damage or loss. Proper storage ensures that the denture reline material remains intact and your dentures stay in good shape.
- Avoid Using Denture Adhesive: While denture adhesive can provide temporary relief for ill-fitting dentures, it is not a substitute for proper denture maintenance. Instead, schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to ensure your dentures fit properly and consider a denture reline if needed.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups with your dentist are essential to ensure your dentures fit properly and to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. Your dentist can advise you on when a denture reline procedure might be necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Denture relining usually takes one to two hours if done in-office, but some types may require sending the dentures to a dental lab, which can take a few days.
After relining, clean your dentures daily with a denture brush and mild soap or a denture cleanser. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or hot water, which can damage the material.
Most types of dentures can be relined, including partial and full dentures. However, some materials, like flexible dentures, may not be suitable for traditional relining.
Keep Your Dentures Fitting Their Best
Denture relines can make all the difference when it comes to comfort, stability, and confidence. Whether you need a soft, hard or temporary reline, Dr. Wilson and our team at Corner Stone Dental are here to help. Regular denture relines not only improve your daily comfort but also support the long-term health of your gums and jaw. If your dentures don’t feel as secure as they used to, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Wilson by calling (618) 236-0501 to regain that easy, natural smile!